Edmonton Oilers (48-25-6) vs. Colorado Avalanche (49-25-7)
The upcoming NHL regular season clash features the Edmonton Oilers taking on the Colorado Avalanche at Ball Arena on Thursday, April 18, 2024. The Oilers come into this game with a solid season performance, boasting 48 wins but facing a slightly tough stretch with a 2-3 record in their last five games. Conversely, the Avalanche, with one more win and two additional losses compared to the Oilers, have shown strong recent form, going 4-1 in their last five. This matchup promises to be electrifying for fans and one of the best live betting opportunities this season, given the close standings and high stakes.
The Oilers’ abilities to score goals are the skills of their top centers, Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. McDavid’s 130 points show his level of play, making him very challenging for anyone he is facing. Draisaitl’s outstanding performance of 104 points became another reason to consider the team to be one of the best attacking lines. Their firepower should be in top form in order to succeed at this and go right through the Avalanche defense, which away from home has been more generous than home.
However, on the other hand, it is the Avalanche’s offense which is led by the N. MacKinnon who has posted 138 points while Rantanen another 103 points. Besides, this organization, which can give the Oilers hard time for defensive preparation, is highly effective. The Oilers will need to use their proactive defense as a way to counterbalance the Avalanche’s fast and tactful offense, known for its ability to score heavily, particularly at home.
Edmonton Oilers vs. Colorado Avalanche Game Info
When: | Thursday, April 18, 2024 at 9:30 PM ET |
Where: | Ball Arena |
TV: | ESPN |
Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Stuart Skinner vs. Goaltender Alexandar Georgiev
Stuart Skinner, the Edmonton Oilers goalkeeper, has shown how fearless he is with a 57 games save percentage of 907 seeing the season through. He has to remain as focused as ever because Avs D-position players know how to push weakness in goalkeepers through their strategy. Skinner’s performance might act as a lynchpin for the Oilers’ win in case he distracts the most efficient Avalanche’s marksmen.
On the flip side, Alexandar Georgiev of the Avalanche, whose .897 save percentage in 63 games is going to face a daunting challenge as he tries to hold the powerful Oilers’ offense headlined by McDavid and Draisaitl. Georgiev is underlined a bit in the sense of raise, on which the Oilers could take advantage if using power plays successfully.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
Currently, the betting odds for the game are yet to be determined. However, given the tight match-up and recent performances, this game could see closely contested lines. Bettors should keep a close eye on updates as the game day approaches, looking for shifts in moneyline odds and point spreads that reflect any last-minute team changes or strategic adjustments.
Edmonton Oilers Betting Trends
The Oilers have a weakening record on the road against the spread of 15-24 and they are 3-2 in the last 5 overall against the spread. This prompts the Oilers fans to have some doubt in the team, although their strong attacks gives them comfort. The statistics that 18 of their 40 recent home games resulted in a total going over is another factor to consider for over/under bettors for this particular match.
Colorado Avalanche Betting Trends
The Avalanche have been gradually improving in their spread performances, having won 3 out of their last 5 games. Although their away from home statistics parallel the Oilers’, it might represent shaky defense when they are outside their home court. The total has gone over in 23 of their last 40 games played at home. That’s a pattern that may continue as they have proven to be an offensive powerhouse.
Edmonton Oilers vs. Colorado Avalanche 4/18/24 Betting Picks
Keeping in mind that both teams have offensive abilities and their current standings, this game can be high-scoring and the Avalanche may gain an edge because they have been playing well recently. Though the leading scorers of the Oilers are capable of swinging any game and making the contest just exciting and uncertain.
In conclusion, while the Avalanche might seem like the safer bet due to their home advantage and better recent form, the Oilers’ offensive threats cannot be underestimated. For those looking for NHL free picks today, watching the live odds for any shifts and considering an over bet might be prudent, given the scoring abilities on display.